How to Change the Resistor on a '95 Chevy Cavalier

The 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier represents the first model year for the GM's third generation "J-Body platform. Although revamped for the 2003 model, 1995 through 2002 Cavaliers share many of the same styling cues and mechanical parts, including the blower motor resistor used for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. A faulty blower motor resistor may render one or several low-speed fan selection positions inoperable. Replacing the blower motor resistor does not require any specialty tools or in-depth automotive repair knowledge, but gaining access to the resistor may prove difficult because of the awkward positioning of the component.

Instructions

1

Open the front passenger-side door and slide the passenger seat to the rearmost position. Recline the seat to provide additional working room.

2

Find the plastic panel under the passenger side of the dashboard, just behind the glove compartment hinges.

3

Remove the three small bolts that secure the front portion for the plastic cover, located near the hinge for the glove compartment, using a ratchet and 7 mm socket.

4

Remove the plastic panel from the vehicle.

5

Position your head underneath the glove compartment area and locate the round-shaped blower motor and the wire harness for the blower resistor.; you may need to lie on your side or sit in the seat, with your head positioned in the foot well, to gain access. The white-colored blower resistor features a rounded rectangular harness connection and two 6 mm mounting screws.

6

Remove the two screws that secure the blower resistor to the blower housing using a ratchet, 6 mm 1/4-inch drive socket and universal joint.

7

Slide the blower resistor from the housing. Disengage the locking tab on the harness connector and disconnect the component from the wiring harness.

8

Connect the replacement blower resistor to the harness connector.

9

Fit the new resistor into the blower housing and replace the mounting screws using a ratchet, 6 mm socket 1/4-inch drive socket and universal joint.

10

Slide the plastic panel back under the glove compartment area and line up the screw holes. Thread the three screws in by hand while holding the panel in place. Tighten the screws with a ratchet and 7 mm socket.